Baines Lane Quilters(click images to enlarge)

In the not too distant past many homes had patchwork quilts, which having been made many years before had become treasured family heirlooms, however the advent of modern technologies, cheap mass produced alternatives dealt an almost fatal blow to this age-old traditional craft.

There are records of quilting used as a technique for bedding as far back as the 14th Century and quilted fabric was used underneath armour for comfort and added protection in battle.

Over the years the technique spread to include petticoats, coats and babies' bonnets but quilting would have been more common for use as warm bedding covers in winter. Patchwork and quilting have become firmly associated with each other over the years, however they are two quite distinct crafts.

The group was set up in 2010. It meets on the third Wednesday of the month, September to June, between 10.00am and 3.30pm. Meetings are mostly without a tutor however it's very relaxed, friendly and informal. Some members have been sewing for a long time, others are new to sewing.

We share our vast and varied knowledge within the group; which includes embroidery, dressmaking, patchwork and quilting in various styles and fashions. If we decide we need a tutor to come along to teach a new technique or speciality, we arrange this to suit the group.

Do you sew?, would you like to start? Why not come along and join us, you would be most welcome.